How to Choose The Right Industrial Fan For Your Cooling Needs (Apr 2025 update)
Alexander BevanChoosing the right fan can be tricky—especially when deciding between an industrial fan and a regular fan. Below, we break down the key differences in power, airflow, noise, and usage to help you pick the best option.
Quick Answer:
Industrial fans (like our 20 Inch Metal Floor Fan) move 3X more air (3450 CFM) but are louder (70dB). Best for workshops, warehouses, or large spaces.
Regular fans (like our 16-inch 3-in-1 Fan) are lighter, quieter (58dB), and versatile (wall/desk/floor use). Ideal for homes or offices.
1. What is an Industrial Fan?
An industrial fan is a heavy-duty cooling system designed for large spaces, workshops, warehouses, or factories. Unlike regular household fans, industrial fans are built to:
✅ Move massive airflow (3X+ more than a regular fan)
✅ Withstand tough environments (metal construction, high durability)
✅ Cool large areas quickly (fixed-direction, high-velocity airflow)
2. What Are the Different Types of Industrial Fans?
Not all industrial fans are the same! Here’s a quick breakdown of the 6 main types, their uses, and which one might suit your needs.
| Fan Type | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Centrifugal | HVAC high-pressure systems | High-pressure, duct-friendly |
| Axial | Factories, exhaust systems | High airflow, low noise |
| Mixed-Flow | Data centres, HVAC | Balanced pressure/airflow |
| HVLS | Warehouses, large spaces | Energy-efficient, massive coverage |
| Inline | Ducted ventilation | Space-saving, hidden installation |
| Metal Floor Fans | Workshops, garages, events | Portable, durable, powerful |
1. Centrifugal Fans
How they work: Air enters radially and exits at 90° (great for ducted systems).
Best for: Factories, HVAC, high-pressure needs.
Not ideal for: Portable cooling.
2. Axial Fans
How they work: Air flows parallel to the blade axis (like a household fan but larger).
Best for: Warehouse exhaust, spot cooling.
Noise level: Low to moderate.
3. Mixed-Flow Fans
Hybrid design: Combines centrifugal + axial features.
Best for: Data centres, mid-pressure HVAC.
4. HVLS Fans (High-Volume, Low-Speed)
Game-changer for large spaces: Covers areas up to 7.3m diameter.
Bonus: Reduces heating costs by 45% in winter!
5. Inline Fans
Hidden workhorses: Installed inside ducts.
Best for: Commercial kitchens, labs.
6. Metal Floor Fans (Our Specialty!)
✔ Portable & powerful – No installation needed.
✔ Heavy-duty airflow – 3450 CFM (vs. 1450 CFM in regular fans).
✔ Built to last – All-metal construction.
👉 Read more information on how the fans work.
3. Industrial Fan vs Regular Fan: Key Differences
| Features | 20" Industrial Fan | 16" Regular Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Warehouses, factories, large spaces | Homes, offices, small rooms |
| Airflow (CFM) | 3450 (Strong airflow) | 1450 (Gentler breeze) |
| Noise Level | 70dB (Louder) | 58dB (Quieter) |
| Power (Wattage) | 120W (Higher energy use) | 40W (Energy-efficient) |
| Mounting Options | Floor only | Floor, desk, or wall-mounted |
| Adjustable Height | No | Yes (Pedestal option) |
| Oscillation | Fixed-direction | 90° Oscillation |
| Weight | 6.1 kg (Heavy-duty) | 2.4 kg (Portable) |
💡 Which one should you choose?
Need maximum cooling for a large space? → Shop Industrial Fan
Want a quieter, multi-use fan? → Shop Regular Fan
👉 Discover which fan blade configuration suits your needs better: a 3 or a 5-blade fan?
4. Industrial Fan vs Regular Fan Power Consumption
A major concern for buyers is energy efficiency. Here’s how they compare:
Industrial Fan (120W):
Uses 3X more power than a regular fan.
Best for short, high-power cooling (e.g., workshops).
Regular Fan (40W):
More energy-efficient for all-day use.
Better for homes, offices, or small businesses.
👉 Learn more about the cost of running a fan and discover five tips to save energy.
5. Which Fan is Best for Your Needs?
✅ Choose an Industrial Floor Fan If You Need:
✔ High airflow (3450 CFM) for large areas.
✔ Durable metal construction (long-lasting).
✔ Fixed-direction cooling (no oscillation).
✅ Choose a Regular Fan If You Need:
✔ Versatility (floor, desk, or wall mounting).
✔ Quieter operation (58dB for offices/bedrooms).
✔ Energy savings (40W vs 120W).
6. What Professionals Say About Morris 20" Industrial Floor Fan
Tough Enough for Metalworking Shops
"As a fabricator, I need equipment that can take abuse. This fan’s all-metal housing survives sparks, dust, and accidental bumps. It moves enough air to clear welding fumes without expensive extraction systems."
— Sarah K. Patel
Lead Welder, SteelCraft Manufacturing
Game-Changer for Warehouse Cooling
"We installed four Morris 20" industrial floor fans across our 2,000 sq ft distribution center. The airflow is intense—keeps our loading dock team cool even in peak summer. No breakdowns after 18 months of daily use."
— Michael T. Reynolds
Warehouse Operations Manager, Bristol Logistics
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can an industrial fan be used at home?
An industrial floor fan can be used at home, but it’s best suited for large spaces like garages or workshops—not bedrooms (too loud at 70dB). Its 3450 CFM airflow is overkill for small rooms but perfect for quick cooling in open areas.
Need heavy-duty power? Shop our 20" Industrial Floor Fan
Does an industrial fan consume more electricity?
Yes, an industrial floor fan consumes more electricity than a regular fan—typically 120W vs 40W. However, its powerful airflow cools large spaces faster, so you may run it for shorter periods. For heavy-duty cooling, the extra power is worth it!
Alexander Bevan
This blog post writer is an authority on indoor climate, with extensive experience helping homeowners and businesses save energy while enhancing air quality and comfort. His well-researched insights, rooted in technical expertise, enable readers to make informed decisions, ensuring reliable guidance for all their energy-saving needs at Morris.
Are industrial fans worth it?
Yes, industrial fans are worth it for large spaces needing powerful airflow—like workshops or warehouses. Our 20" industrial floor fan delivers 3X more airflow (3450 CFM) than regular fans. While louder and pricier, their durability and performance make them ideal for heavy-duty cooling.
Will an industrial fan cool a room?
An industrial floor fan will aggressively cool large rooms, workshops, or open spaces with its powerful 3450 CFM airflow. However, it's overkill for small bedrooms and runs louder (70dB) than household fans. For fast cooling in garages, warehouses, or events, it's unbeatable.
8. Ready to Buy? Here’s Our Top Pick
Best for Industrial Use: 20" Metal Floor Fan – 3450 CFM | Heavy-Duty | High Airflow
Best for Home/Office: 16" 3-in-1 Fan – Quiet | Energy-Saving | Multi-Mount
